Firesteed Cellars 2012 Pinot Noir, Oregon, $17

Davis-trained Bryan Croft turned his 15th vintage in Oregon into one of the state’s more approachable expression of Pinot Noir in terms of price and structure. Aromatic that leap out of the glass are reminiscent of black raspberry, fresh-picked blueberry and lavender include black truffle earthiness and a trail of smoke. No oak gets in between the tasty flavors of blueberry and cranberry sauce, which are finished with bright acidity and cocoa powder. Thanks to the frequent-flying efforts of president Howard Rossbach, these wines are available in 50 states. This earned a silver medal at the 2015 Seattle Wine and Food Experience Wine Awards.